The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has issued an update on weather conditions affecting southern Nevada, northwestern Arizona, and parts of eastern Sierra, anticipating isolated thunderstorms and near-seasonal temperatures heading into the weekend. In a discussion posted early today, the National Weather Service indicated that “isolated thunderstorms are possible across the southern Great Basin, eastern Sierra, and northwestern Arizona today.”
These weather phenomena are the consequence of a substantial yet decreasing moisture presence in the area, which has been drawn northward by a low over southern California. Although precipitation water values (PWATs) remain between 100 and 150 percent of the norm for mid-July, the risk for flash flooding appears to be abated. According to the National Weather Service, “The reduction in moisture should help mitigate the flash flooding concerns.” There’s a slight chance for small hail and gusty outflow winds accompanying any storms that do develop, with activity likely focused on higher terrain due to orographic effects.
Drier and breezier conditions are expected to return over the next week, leading to temperature readings rebounding to typical mid-summer levels. As the National Weather Service notes, the HeatRisk for the region remains in the “minor to moderate categories,” primarily affecting individuals particularly sensitive to heat. Meanwhile, a trough forming off the West Coast may induce breezy southwest winds, potentially leading to elevated fire weather conditions in some more parched locales…